Hammocks and Airbeds

A good night's sleep makes or breaks a camping trip, and the right sleep setup keeps you warm, comfortable and ready for the next day. This collection gathers camping airbeds, sleeping pads, cots and hammocks, the kit that sits between you and the cold ground, from trusted outdoor brands built for comfort and reliability.

Whether you want a plush airbed for car camping, a lightweight pad for backpacking, or a hammock for lazy afternoons, there is a sleep solution here to suit your trips. Below you will find a range of options, plus a guide to help you choose.

Not sure what you need? The guide below explains the options, and our team is happy to help. Browse the range below, or see our wider camping equipment and sleeping bags.

Why Does Your Sleep Setup Matter?

Lying straight on the ground is cold and uncomfortable, because the ground draws heat from your body and offers no cushioning. A pad, airbed or cot insulates you from that cold and provides comfort, which is just as important as a good sleeping bag. Getting your sleep system right is one of the biggest upgrades to how much you enjoy camping.

Airbeds, Pads, Cots or Hammocks?

Each type suits a different style of camping.

• Airbeds: thick, inflatable mattresses that are plush and comfortable, ideal for car camping where weight and pack size do not matter
• Sleeping pads: lighter self inflating or foam mats that insulate well and pack small for backpacking
• Cots: raised beds that keep you off the ground entirely, great for comfort and staying clear of a cold or damp floor
• Hammocks: for relaxing, and for warm weather sleeping where trees allow

Match the type to how you camp, whether that is a comfortable family base camp or a light and fast trip.

Understanding Insulation and R Value

Sleeping pads and airbeds carry an R value, which measures how well they insulate you from the ground. A higher R value means more warmth, which matters most in cold weather and on cold ground. For summer camping a lower R value is fine, while for colder nights a higher R value keeps you warmer. Pairing a well insulated pad with a suitable sleeping bag is the key to a warm night.

Comfort and Thickness

Thickness affects comfort, especially for side sleepers. A thick airbed or a well padded self inflating mat cushions your hips and shoulders, while a thin foam mat is lighter but firmer. For car camping, comfort can take priority with a thick airbed, while backpackers balance comfort against weight and pack size. Think about how you sleep when choosing.

Weight and Packed Size

How you travel shapes what you need. For car camping, weight and pack size matter little, so a plush airbed or a comfortable cot is ideal. For backpacking and hiking, a light self inflating or foam pad that packs small is the better choice. Check the packed size and weight against how you will carry it to the pitch.

What About Pumps and Inflation?

Airbeds and many self inflating pads need inflating, so consider how. Self inflating pads do most of the work themselves with a top up by mouth or pump, while airbeds usually need a pump, which may be built in, rechargeable or separate. A rechargeable or battery pump saves effort at camp, so check what is included and whether you need to add a pump.

How to Choose Your Sleep Setup

Start with how you camp. For family or car camping, a thick airbed or a comfortable cot gives the best comfort. For backpacking, choose a light, well insulated sleeping pad that packs small. Match the R value to the coldest nights you expect, and pair your pad or bed with a suitable sleeping bag for a warm, comfortable night.

How Do I Care for My Sleep Gear?

• Dry airbeds and pads fully before storing to prevent mould
• Store self inflating pads unrolled with the valve open, which helps them last
• Keep gear away from sharp objects that could puncture it
• Carry a repair kit for airbeds and inflatable pads
• Wipe cots and hammocks clean and store them dry

How Much Does Camping Sleep Gear Cost?

Price depends on the type, insulation and comfort. Basic foam pads and simple airbeds are the most affordable, insulated self inflating pads and sturdy cots sit in the middle, and premium lightweight pads with high R values cost more. A higher price usually buys better insulation, comfort or a lighter pack. Choose based on how and where you camp.

Why Buy Your Sleep Gear from Surface2Air Sports?

We have supplied outdoor enthusiasts since 2002, with a shop in Poole and the full range online. We can help you match an airbed, pad, cot or hammock to how you camp, and pair it with the right sleeping bag for warmth. Expect honest advice, trusted brands, and options for every budget. See more from the Kelty range to complete your camp.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hammocks and Airbeds

Why do I need a pad or airbed as well as a sleeping bag?

The ground draws heat from your body, so a pad or airbed insulates you from the cold and adds comfort, which a sleeping bag alone cannot do.

What is R value?

R value measures how well a pad or airbed insulates you from the ground. A higher R value means more warmth, which matters most on cold nights.

Airbed or sleeping pad: which is better?

Airbeds are plush and comfortable for car camping, while lighter sleeping pads insulate well and pack small for backpacking. Choose by how you camp.

Do airbeds come with a pump?

Some have a built in or included pump and some do not. Check the listing, and add a pump if one is not included.

Are cots warm enough?

A cot keeps you off the cold, damp ground, but for cold nights add an insulating pad on top, as air can circulate beneath a raised cot.

How do I store a self inflating pad?

Store it unrolled with the valve open in a dry place, which helps the foam keep its loft and the pad last longer.